Theme Park Safety Tips For Parents

If you mention Disneyland or any other theme park to children their faces will light up immediately. The prospect of spending time on every amusement ride is just overwhelming for children – and adults alike. The thrill starts at the mere mention of these places. The excitement builds up as the day draws nearer. More so on the day you take the kids to the theme park. In their minds, fun and entertainment awaits them. It’s an experience they will treasure forever. As a parent, are you ready to make this day truly special? Parenting does not stop at providing fun and entertainment for our little ones. In the background of this joyous day, what safety rules do you have in mind? If there are none, this is the time to sit back and contemplate about ensuring safety of your children in theme parks.

Is it really safe?

Although many theme park rides look death defying, they are actually safe. According to a 2010 report of the Fixed-Site Amusement Ride Injury Survey, the chances of being seriously injured at a fixed-site amusement park in the U.S. is 1 in 9 million. Every year, approximately 290 million patrons visit approximately 400 amusement parks in the U.S. In a year, theme park guests take 1.7 billion rides in amusement parks. According to the report only 5% of the 1,207 ride-related injuries required overnight stay in the hospital.

Having a 1 in 9 million chance of serious injury seems to be in your favor. But this should not put your guard down!

Amusement ride safety guidelines

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) came up with amusement ride safety guidelines for theme park visitors. These set of safety rules are posted in different areas of the theme park and is usually highlighted near the amusement ride entrance gate.

Of course the rules may differ from one theme park to another. However, here a general idea what these rules are:

1. Parks don’t discriminate but they do have restrictions when it comes to age, height, weight and even medical health conditions.
2. Park safety rules are not merely suggestions. Guests are expected to follow them.
3. Your extremities are valuable to you today and in the future, keep them inside the ride
4. Remain seated (or however you are strapped on) throughout the ride until you are told to disembark
5. Safety equipment is meant to protect you so use it properly.
6. Children should be able to understand safety rules and exhibit proper behavior during rides.
7. Never force children or adults to ride if they do not want.
8. All unsafe conditions and behaviors must be reported immediately.

An amusement ride becomes safer when park visitors follow these basic guidelines.

More parent safety tips

Sure, there are theme park rules and guidelines to follow. But remember that every family is different – every child is different. Setting your own rules will ensure you give a fun and entertaining day for everyone.

• Set rules and expectations – talk to them the dos and don’ts way before going to the park. Remind them about these rules and expectations.
• Have a fun plan – everyone wants to have fun so plot your day’s activities so everyone get to do what they want.
• Buddy system – ideally have an adult supervising a manageable number of children.
• Meeting places and meeting times – designate meeting places.
• Remind them what to do in case of emergencies – e.g. getting lost, accidents, and strangers

Obviously you don’t want to suck out all the fun with the rules and limitations. But do make sure they understand these safety guidelines.

Safety in theme parks is made easier when parents take point in setting rules. Enforcing these rules is also an integral part of the fun.